An integrated survey of best practices for the management of patients with implanted prosthetic devices and an insightful examination of the epidemiological, societal, and policy issues associated with their use. The devices covered range from breast, penile, vascular, and joint prostheses to cochlear, ossicular, and dental implants, and include cerebrospinal fluid shunts, cardiac valves, stents, and pacemakers. For each device, the authors consider its pros and cons, detail the best current strategies to keep implanted patients healthy, and evaluate the latest and most promising new diagnostic tests, Clinical counterpoints from distinguished authorities at major centers in the United States and Europe are offered throughout. Follow-up recommendations are summarized in a standardized format that allows comparative analysis and lays the foundation for controlled clinical trials and the eventual establishment of evidence-based guidelines.
